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If you’re planning to go big or go home with your new mattress, you’ll want to make sure you’ve snagged the very best.
We’ve rounded up some of the best king-size mattress options available across different price points and sleep needs. We also have some savvy shopping tips for you.
Crowning the best kings took some legwork. Here’s how we did it:
We reviewed company policies: Specifically, we dove into warranties, in-home trials, shipping, and return policies.
We looked at company reputation and transparency: Each brand we feature has a positive reputation, transparent business practices, good customer reviews, and meets federal flammability requirements.
We prioritized: We chose mattresses with good materials certifications and included brands that sell a range of king sizes.
You’ll find a few different types of king-size mattresses on the market, including:
Memory foam mattresses: This popular option is loved for its body-hugging ability. However, some people dislike the feeling of sinking into memory foam.
Latex mattresses: While similar to memory foam mattresses, latex mattresses are known for improved breathability and bounce-back factor. They can also be more durable and cooler than regular memory foam. Latex, of course, is not the pick for people with a latex allergy.
Innerspring mattresses: These are more traditional mattresses that use a steel coil support system. They’re long lasting and affordable, but they usually only have one thin layer of padding.
Hybrid mattresses: These offer the best of both worlds: a coil spring base topped with layers of latex or foam. This blend gives comfort, durability, and support. Plus, hybrid mattresses work well for many sleeping styles.
There are also several sizes of king-size mattresses:
regular king (typically 76 inches wide by 80 inches long)
California king (typically 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, which is great for sleepers over 6 feet tall)
split king (each side is adjustable to raise and lower)
Alaskan king (typically the largest mattress available, at approximately 108 inches wide by 108 inches long)
Roomy: King-size mattresses provide plenty of space for partners to get comfy, roll over, and stretch out — not to mention, extra space for kiddos and pets to join.
Comfier for sleepers with more weight: These mattresses are usually supportive, long, and wide, accommodating people of all body types and sizes.
Options: You can find memory foam, latex, innerspring, and hybrid king-size mattresses. There are also extended king sizes available, including California king, split king, and Alaskan king.
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Cons
Higher price point: King-size mattresses, bedding, and other accessories are often pricier than the more common queen-size mattresses.
Takes up more space: King-size mattresses take up more space in the bedroom. A larger mattress may also take more effort to move.
May feel too big for some sleepers: Petite sleepers may feel like the bed has more space than needed.
When shopping for a king-size mattress, do your research and consider your needs, lifestyle, and sleeping style (side, back, stomach, etc.). Many mattresses will say what sleeping position they’re intended for, but in general, opt for something firmer if you’re a back or stomach sleeper, and something softer if you’re a side sleeper.
Take a look at the mattress’s materials, too. You may want to consider those that have certifications like GOTS or GOLS. Think about whether you find foam comfy or if you prefer the extra support of springs, too.
If you can, test out mattresses in person. A test drive is often the fastest way to know if a mattress is right for you. However, if you can’t try a mattress out ahead of time, buy from a company that offers an in-home trial period and a good return policy. Also, take a look at the warranty to see what’s covered.
Nope. There’s a range of king-size mattresses available beyond just a standard king. Alaskan king is usually the largest king-size mattress available, measuring approximately 108 inches wide by 108 inches long.
What’s the difference between a king-size mattress and a California king?
A standard king-size mattress is usually 76 inches wide by 80 inches long, while a California king is typically 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. Thanks to its extra length, a California king tends to be the best choice for sleepers over 6 feet tall.
What’s a split king mattress?
Think of this bed as two twin XL mattresses pushed together. This type of king-size mattress is usually designed to work with an adjustable base and to cater to each sleeper’s needs. One sleeper can sit up, while the other rests in a horizontal position.
These mattresses are good for reducing motion transfer, as each sleeper has their own mattress. This means, you likely won’t be able to feel your partner moving around. The downside is that these mattresses tend to cost more and require specific sheets.
How can you choose which king-size mattress to buy?
First, consider who the mattress is accommodating. A tall sleeper? A sleeper with more weight? Multiple sleepers, including children and pets? Then, consider how much space you have. Can you reasonably move the mattress through the halls and doorways to get to your bed frame?
Once you know the answers to these questions, check out the range of king-size mattresses available to find the best dimensions for you and your space.
There are many king-size mattress options, sizes, and price ranges available.
These 13 options checked our boxes for reputation and quality but be sure to do your research before committing to a brand. Try to test the mattress out in person if possible or buy from a company that offers an in-home trial.
Breanna Mona is a writer based in Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a master’s degree in media and journalism and writes about health, lifestyle, and entertainment.
How we reviewed this article:
Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.
Radwan A, et al. (2015). Effect of different mattress designs on promoting sleep quality, pain reduction, and spinal alignment in adults with or without back pain; systematic review of controlled trials. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29073401/
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